My Wife Deserves Far More

Alexander's casual statement sent a tremor through the entire auction hall.

"Did he just say 'wife'? The founder of Aethelgard Industries is married?" A man whispered, his voice thick with disbelief.

"This can't be real. How is this possible? There's never been a single rumor. His secrecy is impeccable."

"What kind of woman could possibly be married to him?" A woman murmured, her tone laced with pure envy.

As the truth dawned, a wave of jealousy mixed with awe washed over the female attendees.

This was no ordinary man. This was Alexander Blackwood. The reclusive billionaire behind the global tech giant Aethelgard Industries. One of the world's most powerful and mysterious figures.

In Crestwood alone, countless society beauties had schemed for just a glimpse of him. All had failed.

To be his wife wasn't just fortunate.

It was a fantasy made real.

And then there was the gift. A cool one billion dollars spent without a second thought.

This new reality instantly altered the atmosphere. Several women began shooting pointed, expectant looks at their companions.

"Did you see that? He personally chooses a gift for his wife. A billion dollars, just like that."

"Exactly. And you complain when I buy a new handbag. Have I ever demanded anything close to that?"

The men under scrutiny could only lower their heads in silent resignation. There was no arguing in front of so many people.

Inwardly, however, they cursed Alexander for setting an impossible standard. How could they ever compete?

From now on, any gift—jewels, cars, lavish holidays—would feel inadequate. The moment their partners showed the slightest dissatisfaction, they would inevitably hear the same devastating comparison. "Alexander Blackwood bought his wife a necklace worth a billion dollars that night."

Even Sebastian, seated in the private box, was stunned into speechlessness for a moment. "Have you lost your mind? A billion dollars? For a gift? I know you're wealthy, but this is absurd extravagance!" he finally blurted out.

Alexander remained utterly composed. His voice was calm and firm. "A billion dollars is insignificant. My wife deserves far more than that."

The gemstone necklace was officially sold. Moments later, it was delivered to the private box with meticulous care.

Alexander took the case without hesitation and departed, Sebastian following closely behind.

Inside the car, Alexander opened the velvet box.

The necklace inside was a masterpiece. The central gem radiated an ethereal brilliance, its cut flawless. Sourced from the earth's most remote regions, its rarity was unmatched. Every detail of the setting exuded an elegance that spoke of supreme luxury.

Alexander studied it silently. The more he looked, the more certain he felt. This was perfect for Evelyn.

Her quiet strength, her innate grace—they were unique. Only a piece of this caliber could truly suit her.

A thought occurred to him. How would she react when she saw it?

Surprise? Overwhelming joy?

The image of her delighted smile formed in his mind. The corners of his usually stern lips lifted into a faint, almost imperceptible curve.

Sebastian, sitting beside him, noticed the subtle change in his expression and fell quiet, his feelings complex.

He had known Alexander for years. He believed the man was incapable of such sentiment.

Cold. Logical. Detached. That was the Alexander he knew.

But tonight had shattered that belief.

Who would have thought Alexander Blackwood was a secret romantic, and of such an extravagant kind?

Suppressing a sigh, Sebastian's curiosity shifted focus.

His interaction with Evelyn that day had been brief. He hadn't formed a full impression.

Just what kind of woman was she, to have this effect on Alexander?

One thing was clear. He needed to find an opportunity to properly understand her.